General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Practice Exam

What causes the RAT to deploy automatically during flight?

1. Single engine failure

2. Both engines fail and C system pressure is low

3. All hydraulic systems are operational

4. Electrical overload

The correct answer is: Both engines fail and C system pressure is low

The deployment of the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) during flight is primarily associated with critical situations where the aircraft requires an auxiliary source of power, particularly during an emergency scenario. The correct answer highlights that the RAT deploys automatically when both engines fail and system pressure is low. In the event of a dual-engine failure, the RAT serves to provide hydraulic power and electrical generation necessary to maintain essential flight systems, ensuring some level of control and functionality. This automatic deployment is designed as a contingency measure to manage the aircraft's systems until safe landing procedures can be executed. The scenario reflects the critical need for redundancy in aircraft systems, especially in dual-engine scenarios, emphasizing safety protocols in aviation design. The other scenarios indicated in the other choices do not provide the same critical trigger for RAT deployment. For instance, a single engine failure would still allow the remaining engine to provide necessary thrust and hydraulic pressure. Similarly, if all hydraulic systems are operational, there would be no immediate need for the RAT. An electrical overload would not inherently lead to the activation of the RAT, as its function is specifically geared towards redressing failures rather than electrical distress alone.